By Devin McCullough
On September 13, 2025, the UNC Pembroke Braves defeated No. 16 Delta State in a thrilling 25-21 comeback, one of the team’s most remarkable victories in recent history. UNCP was behind 21-10 going into the fourth quarter, but they came back with a string of daring and unorthodox plays that changed the outcome of the match.
Leading the charge was quarterback Tre Robinson, who threw for 205 yards and ran for 88 more, including a touchdown run of 25 yards that put the Braves within striking reach. After a daring two-point conversion play in which UNCP perfectly double-passed to trim the lead to three, the momentum really changed. The game-winning score was later set up by another trick play, a reverse throw, giving the Braves their first lead with only.
Under pressure, Delta State, which had dominated the first three quarters with a well-balanced attacking onslaught, found it difficult to react. In the closing minutes, UNCP’s defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs and securing the win.
The upset sent a strong message to Division II football: UNCP is a team to watch. This was the first time the two programs had ever met. The Braves’ victory put them at 2-1 on the season and gave them a huge boost in confidence.
League officials announced Monday afternoon that Taylor Harris had won Conference Carolinas Special Teams Player of the Week, and Donovan Woods had been named Conference Carolinas Defensive Player of the Week with 2 interceptions.
Looking ahead, the Braves’ first conference game of the season will be against Ferrum State. After defeating Shaw in its first DII game, Ferrum, which is in its first year at the NCAA Division II level, comes into the match with a 1-2 record. UNCP has a great chance to start conference play off strongly after their upset victory against Delta State.